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Cancun Tours

Book your tour experience with Amigo Tours Cancún. Explore the Maya temples of Chichen Itza and Tulum or adventure through the eco-parks of Xcaret, Xplor, and Xel-Ha. Swim in sacred cenotes, snorkel above stunning coral reefs, or swim with dolphins. Browse all Cancún tours below and book yours online today.

Discover the Best Cancun Tours for Your Ultimate Vacation Experience

From relaxing catamaran cruises, Mayan Ruins to thrilling speed boat adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And with our expert guides and top-notch service, you can rest assured that your Cancun tour will be an experience you’ll never forget .

Book Your Cancun Tours Today and Create Unforgettable Memories

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• 💙Best Seller
• Map Marker Cancún
• Hour Glass 12 hours
• Tag Shared Tour

Chichen Itza Tour: Cenote, Valladolid, Tequila Tasting & Buffet lunch

Learn about the history of Chichen Itza and the Maya civilization on this Cancun tour. Your experience includes a swim in a sacred cenote, a visit to Valladolid, a Tequila Tasting and a delicious buffet lunch

• Hour Glass 10 hours , 8 hours

Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour

This Isla Mujeres catamaran tour from Cancun is a great way to spend your day. Enjoy the Mexican Caribbean sailing its waters, snorkeling in a reef, having drinks from an open bar, and spending time at the island in a Beach Club!

Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam & Cenote Small Group Guided Tour

Visit Chichén Itzá, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Ek Balam ad swim in a cenote in one day Cancun Tour. Take advantage of this 3 in 1 tour.

Chichen Itza Early Access Tour with Lunch Buffet & Tequila Tasting

Avoid the crowds and heat on this Chichén Itzá sunrise tour! Learn about this amazing archeological site that’s considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Tulum & Coba Mayan Ruins Guided Tour with Cenote Swim & Buffet Lunch

If you want to visit the Tulum and Cobá Ruins, swim in a cenote, and have the opportunity to indulge in the purest flavors of Mexico with a buffet lunch together with chocolate and tequila tastings, this is your tour!

• New: 20% Off
• Hour Glass 3.5 hours

Sunset Catamaran Adults Only with Live Music & Drinks

Sail away in Cancun and Isla Mujeres coasts aboard an exclusive catamaran full of fun!

Coba, Chichen Itza, cenote & Valladolid with Buffet Lunch

If you want to visit two of the most iconic ruins in Quintana Roo, swim in a cenote and taste a typical Mexican buffet lunch, this is your Cancun tour!

• Hour Glass 5 hours

Isla Mujeres Golf Cart Guided Tour with Beach Club Access from Cancun

Discover Isla Mujeres on a day tour where you will embark on a golf cart guided tour to visit the most emblematic sites of the island! Enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and relax at a beach club with lunch and drinks before returning to Cancun.

• New Tour Promo

Catamaran LGBT Gay Party in Cancun with DJ, Open Bar & Snacks

Set sail on the Rainbow Waves Party Catamaran for a lively and inclusive LGTBIQ+ celebration in Cancun! Enjoy vibrant DJ beats, an open bar with refreshing cocktails and local spirits, and a variety of snacks. Dance, socialize, and soak in stunning ocean views on this spacious catamaran.

2-Day Tour: Chichén Itzá Early Access & Tulum and Coba Mayan Ruins with Cenote Swim

Know Cancun in 2 days with this combo tour where you will visit three of the most important archeological sites in Cancun: Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba, swim in a cenote and have the opportunity to taste some Mexican gastronomy!

• Hour Glass 1 hour 15 minutes

Clear Boat Tour at Nichupte Lagoon in Cancun

If you like adventure, the sea, or nature, this glass boat tour is for you. Enjoy a unique experience in the Caribbean Sea sailing with us in a 100% transparent boat.

• Hour Glass 2 days

Chichen Itza With Buffet & Catamaran To Isla Mujeres

Get to know one of the seven wonders of the world and sail away from Cancun on a catamaran full of fun with an Open Bar, lunch & Snorkel during this 2-day Cancun tour.

Dolphin Experience & ATV adventure 2-day combo tour

Take part on this experience of two days where you will be able to interact with a friendly dolphin, and enjoy a complete jungle adventure full of adrenaline and nature on this Cancun Tour.

• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Clear Boat & Snorkel Tour in Cozumel

Enjoy the crystal clear water of Cozumel with this tour and snorkel at the most beautiful of the crystal clear waters of Cozumel.

Tulum Skip the line, Tequila Tasting & optional Train

Skip the line and travel back in time for discovering the ancient Mayan fortress at the Ruins of Tulum.

• Hour Glass 45 minutes

Clear boat ride Isla Mujeres

Enjoy a boat ride along the coast of Isla Mujeres and admire the precious marine landscape of the Caribbean Sea waters underneath your feet!

• Hour Glass 3 hours

Pirate Ship Party Cruise in Cancun

Take in the night time views of Cancún Bay aboard a pirate ship as you watch an authentic pirate show and enjoy a delicious dinner on board.

• New solidary tour!
• Tag Private Tour

Discover Unexplored Yaxunah Mayan Ruins & Chichen Itza on a private tour

Discover two perfect examples of the Mayan Civilization: Yaxunah & Chichen Itza. Discover all about the Mayan culture on this private guided Cancun tour.

Jungle Tour Cancun: Speedboat & Snorkel

Enjoy a Cancun tour full of fun and adrenaline! Drive a speed boat, snorkel & taste the Mayan food. Explore a magical place where you will be surrounded by Mayan Warriors and be able to observe a huge Mayan calendar. You will be amazed to hear the guide’s explanation of the calendar and its sacred solar cycles and participate with our characters into a Mayan offering to the gods.

• Hour Glass 9 hours

Day of the Dead in a magical cenote all year round

Be part of the traditional celebration of the Day of the Dead with this immersive Cancun tour! Visit a historic convent whose walls emanate a great spiritual ambiance, participate in ancient Mayan Rituals, try some traditional food, as well as local liquors. Delight yourself with this unique experience.

Chichén Itzá early access & Jungle Adventure 2-day combo tour

Embark on this Cancun tour where history and adventure come together to offer you an unforgettable experience! You will be visiting Chichén Itzá in the first date, and Selvática, the Adventure Tribe, in the second day!

Beach Break Playa Mia Cozumel

Make the most of your day at your own pace at the private beach club of Playa Mia. Come with your family and friends and enjoy your day!

• Hour Glass 6 hours

Cozumel Snorkel Tour, El Cielo Bay & Playa Mia Beach Day

Seize the day and venture to snorkel over the beautiful Palancar Reef. Don’t miss the opportunity the swim around the beautiful local coral animals!

Private Tours in Cancun

• Hour Glass 11 hours

Private Chichen Itza Tour Plus

Get to know one of the New Seven Wonders of the World on this Cancun private tour to Chichen Itza and Valladolid. Go for a swim in a sacred cenote!

• Hour Glass 10 hours

Private Early Access Guided Tour of Chichen Itza with Lunch Buffet

Avoid the crowds on this private sunrise Cancun tour of Chichen Itza! Learn about this important Mayan site and see why it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

• Hour Glass 11 hours , 9 hours

Sian Kaan & Muyil Sunset Private Tour

Live a unique experience visiting the ruins of Muyil and being amazed by a wonderful sunset in Sian Kaan!

• Hour Glass 7 hours

Private Catamaran to Isla Mujeres

The catamaran ride to Isla Mujeres is a full-day excursion for all ages. Explore the imposing attractions of the island snorkeling in one of the most beautiful reefs in the Caribbean.

TICKETS to Chichen Itza, Tulum & Ferry

Chichen itza tickets.

Chichen Itza Tickets Skip-the-line, advance to the final entrance, and go to the shop called “Calendario Maya”, show your smartphone voucher to get your paper ticket and get direct entrance.

Tickets for Tulum

Skip the line and travel back in time for discovering the ancient Mayan fortress of Tulum.

• Hour Glass 1 hour

Ticket Ferry to Isla Mujeres from Cancun

If you are willing to visit Isla Mujeres, do not wait any longer to start your adventure. Buy your ticket today and secure your place on the most comfortable and fastest ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. Make your trip an unforgettable experience from the first moment!

• Hour Glass 3.5 hours , 5 hours , 8 hours

Rio Secreto Skip-The-Line Ticket

Step into a magical world hidden beneath the jungle of the Riviera Maya and explore Río Secreto, which is more than just a nature reserve: it is a journey to the heart of the Earth!

• Hour Glass 1-2 hours

Frog's Pass: Mexican Food & Fiesta

If you want to immerse yourself in a true Mexican fiesta, there’s no better place than Señor Frog’s, a restaurant where you will have a unique experience as it will delight you with the perfect blend of food and party!

Tickets for Cirque du Soleil: Joyà

Tickets for croco cun zoo: fast track, esim for travel, cancun tours faqs.

Are you ready to explore Cancun in the most exciting way possible? At Amigo Tours, we’re thrilled to be your companions on this adventure. To ensure you have a smooth and memorable experience, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions Cancun Tours that will help you plan your visit to this Caribbean paradise.

From the best activities to practical tips on how to make the most of your time here, our Cancun Tours FAQS are designed to answer all your questions and concerns

How much do tours cost in Cancun?

Amigo Tours offers a diverse range of tours to accommodate every budget and preference.

From thrilling adventure tours to serene nature excursions, and from captivating visits to cenotes to immersive explorations of archaeological sites like Chichén Itza, Tulum or Coba, we have something for everyone. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect tour to fit your budget and interests.

Explore our website to discover our full range of Cancun tours and find the one that’s right for you.

How much does the tour from Cancun to Chichen Itza cost?

Interested in exploring one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World, Chichen Itza, from Cancun? At Amigo Tours, we offer two distinct tour options: Chichén Itzá (Cenote, Valladolid, Tequila Tasting & Buffet lunch) and the Chichen Itza Early Access Tour with Lunch Buffet, Cenote & Tequila Tasting.

Both tours provide round-trip transportation from Cancun to Chichen Itza, along with delicious meals included, cenote and tequila tasting.

Compare the options and choose the Chichen Itza tour that best fits your preferences

Visit Balandra Beach: A Full Guide For First-Timers

Playa Balandra, also known as Balandra Beach, is widely recognized as Mexico’s most stunning beach. Located on the Baja California Peninsula, it is an absolute must-visit destination for travelers. It is breathtaking with its crystal clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, cacti-filled cliffs, and stunning rock formations.

In this article, I will reveal everything you need to visit Balandra Beach including the top activities to engage in, places to stay in, and much more.

So, without any further delay let’s jump to the details (:

Planning Your Trip to Balandra Beach

Balandra Beach is exactly what you would picture: a wide, white sand beach at the base of a mountain with a calm, clear sea. However, you should know some important basic things before visiting this beach.

Where is Balandra Beach located?

Balandra Beach is located in La Paz, in Baja California Sur. It takes about 30 minutes to drive there from downtown La Paz and about 2 hours to go to Los Cabos, a popular tourist spot.

What time does Balandra Beach open?

Balandra Beach is open from 8 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., but only a few people can be there at any time. Please keep in mind that, just before noon, officials will come around and kick everyone out, but you can come back at 1 p.m. on the same day.

However, sticking to the set hours is essential to help keep this federally protected area in good shape.

Is Balandra Beach free?

Yes, the entrance at Balandra Beach is totally free. However, you still may be charged a small fee for car parking or any nearby services and activities you might want to participate in while you’re on this incredible beach.

At the same time, it has been said that Balandra Beach will start charging a small entrance fee of 50 pesos. This doesn’t bother most travelers including me because the money will go toward keeping the park in good shape.

With all this being said, my only advice for anyone who is planning to visit the beach is to always have some cash with them to be able to pay for any fun activities that you may be interested in trying.

What to pack for Balandra Beach?

When you go to Balandra Beach, you can bring many different things. On the other hand, you want to get a manageable amount of stuff, especially if you only have a carry-on. So, the key is to plan and figure out which things are most important to you.

With that being said, let me tell you a few of the most important things to bring on your trip to the beach.

First and foremost, bringing sunscreen should always be at the top of your packing list, no matter where you’re going, whether it’s to the beach, the city, or the mountains.

The second thing is a good swimsuit, this is especially true if you’re planning to swim. An even great rule is to bring at least two to wear one while the other dries. Also, you’d want a backup in case something happens to one.

Next on the list is a dry bag to keep your phone, gadgets, and other things safe while you splash around in the water, snorkel, or swim at Balandra Beach.

Moreover, leather sandals are great for walking around town, but for the beach, you should bring a pair of water-resistant rubber sandals.

There are no ATMs nearby. So, as I said early on bring enough money to rent kayaks and pay for your ride back.

Lastly, remember that Balandra Beach is in a Natural Heritage area, meaning no shops or restaurants exist. Therefore, make sure you bring some snacks and drinks.

What To Expect when visiting Balandra In La Paz?

There are a lot of beautiful beaches in La Paz Mexico , but most new travelers might be wondering what makes Balandra Beach stand out.

Balandra Beach is not just one beach, for one thing. Technically, it is a bay with seven different beaches. It has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

Cactus-covered mountains surround the beach, and the water is a lovely shade of turquoise against the desert.

The unique mushroom-shaped rock formation along the shoreline is one of the most memorable things about this place. It makes you want to take a picture of it.

But that’s not all: Balandra Beach also knows how to calm you. When you step onto its soft, powdery white sands, your problems seem to melt away in the gentle sea breeze.

How To Get To Balandra Beach?

There are a few ways to get to Balandra Beach, depending on what you want to do and how much money you have.

Here are the different ways to get to Balandra Beach from the nearby Mexican cities:

• Going by car
• Going by bus
• Going by Taxi/Uber
• Joining a Guided Tour
• Going by boat

Now, let’s explain the Balandra Beach transportation options in a bit more detail.

Getting To Balandra By Car

If you’re traveling using your own car then getting to Balandra Beach or similar tourist hotspots will be a piece of cake. It’s the most suitable mode of transportation, especially for a family vacation.

if you don’t have a car, then renting one is the best way to get to know a foreign place, and Balandra Beach is no different. Whether you want to go on day trips from your hotel or take a beach tour, renting a car is the best way to make your dream vacation come true. The drive takes about 30 minutes, and once you get there.

If you go on the weekends or holidays with many people, finding a place to park your car might take longer.

Getting to Balandra By Bus

The Playa Bus is the best and cheapest way to get to the beach. For each course, the ticket price should be at most 100 pesos. This shuttle bus leaves from the La Paz Malecon Bus Station every hour.

Usually, the bus will drop you off at the car park on the way to the beach. But you’ll have to walk about 10 minutes to get to the road when you want to leave.

Getting to Balandra By Taxi/Uber

You can take a taxi or Uber from La Paz if a rental car isn’t a good option for you. The cheaper choice is Uber, which will cost you about 150 pesos one way. If you choose this option, remember that getting back to La Paz at the end of the day can be challenging.

Personally, I wouldn’t count on getting an Uber or taxi from Balandra Beach, so be prepared to take the bus back. Or call an Uber earlier in the afternoon instead of later so you can make other plans if you can’t get one.

Joining a Balandra Guided Tour

A guided tour is an excellent choice if you don’t have a rental car and want to avoid taking the bus or train. You can go on a guided tour from La Paz or Cabo San Lucas.

A professional guide will show you around the area and its history which is another added benefit of this option.

Getting to Balandra By Boat

You can quickly get to Balandra Beach by boat, a popular way to see the beautiful coast and its hidden beaches. You can rent a sailboat or motorboat in La Paz and head to Balandra for the day. You can also take a panga boat to Balandra Beach from nearby Playa El Tecolote. So, the choice is yours!

My Recommendation: Among the methods I’ve described, car renting is the most practical and time-saving option for reaching Balandra Beach. Since Balandra Beach is only open briefly, renting a car lets you make the most of your time and get there early.

What’s The Best Time To Visit Balandra Beach?

Balandra Beach is a popular place to go all year round. People go there in the winter to escape the snow at home, and others go from spring to fall to enjoy the warmer weather.

If you don’t like hot weather, the best time to go is from November to April, which is the dry season. With an average temperature of 66°F, February is the most incredible month.

If you want warm water, sunny skies, and little wind, go to this beach in May or October. The water is much better for swimming and snorkeling at those times.

Best Things To Do In Balandra Beach (Explained)

When you get to this beach, you can take advantage of everything it offers.

Here are a few fun activities and things to do at Balandra Beach in La Paz:

• Hike around Balandra Bay
• Try and get a view of Mushroom Rock
• Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding
• Visit Tecolote Beach
• Enjoy a Picnic under a Palapa

Let’s further discuss each activity to give a clear picture of what to expect.

1. Hike around Balandra Bay

Empty, cactus-covered mountains surround the beach, and there is no better view of the bay than from the top of the hill. There are lots of trails that go up the hill from the parking lot or the beach. It takes a little work, but it’s worth it because the view from the top of the mountain is fantastic.

Even if you don’t want to hike, you should walk up to the closest lookout, right above the parking lot, to see how beautiful the area is.

2. Try and get a view of Mushroom Rock

Aside from the pristine beaches, one of the area’s main attractions is the Hongo de Balandra, also known as the mushroom-shaped rock formation.

The rock is concealed near the main beach, just around the corner. You must pass through shallow water to reach the rock, so be prepared to get wet.

3. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding

Suppose you are interested in a distinctive way to explore the bay or beach. In that case, you can often find vendors at Balandra Beach who offer stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) and kayaks for rent.

The prices for kayaks and SUPs are higher than the average in Mexico. Kayaks cost 350 pesos per hour or 200 pesos for 30 minutes, while SUPs are priced at 300 pesos per hour.

However, despite the cost, it is a delightful activity that allows you to explore the beautiful areas surrounding the beach. Certain tour operators also provide specialized Balandra Beach SUP Tours.

4. Visit Tecolote Beach

When you’re done at Balandra Beach, go further up the road to Playa Tecolote for a few minutes. This beach is not in a bay, so the waves are more prominent, and the water is more profound than at Balandra.

Even though it will never be as pretty as Balandra Beach, Tecolote is a great place to swim, snorkel, or do other water sports and it’s not far away so why don’t you take a chance and explore it as well?

5. Enjoy a Picnic under a Palapa

Balandra Beach is the perfect place to chill out. Locals love to have picnics on the beach under a palapa to stay calm. A palapa is a shaded building in Mexico that has a roof made of palm leaves.

The main beach has a row of free palapas just a few feet from the water. Since this is the only shade on the beach, most people will head straight for it as soon as they arrive. Please remember that you must get to the beach early or wait until someone else leaves their palapa to get one.

Where to stay In Balandra Beach? (Recommendations)

Balandra Beach has no hotels, houses, or other permanent buildings because it is in a Natural Protected Area. But about 10 miles south of Balandra, there are some great hotels that offer excellent services.

La Posada Hotel & Beach Club

This hotel is 3 km from the center of La Paz and a few minutes from the beach. It is perfect for families who want to escape the city and stay at a high-end resort.

It has master suites that can fit up to three people and a kid’s pool, babysitting services, and cribs, which make it easy to change and dress your child or children. When you upgrade to a master suite, you can get extra features like hot tubs and services like a private butler.

La Concha Beach Resort

La Concha Beach Resort is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in La Paz . it is an excellent place for people who like to do things in the water. It also has a beach club where you can go diving, snorkeling, or canoeing.

The hotel is on a private beach near La Paz Bay. The rooms at this hotel are very friendly, and they have air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a bathroom, cable TV, and beautiful sea views.

Amazing Vista Coral Condo

If you want to stay in La Paz with your family, the Amazing Vista Coral Condo is your best bet. The fantastic resort lives up to its name and is on a beautiful beachfront with ocean views, city, and mountains.

There will be free Wi-Fi and a private beach for you to use. When you want to relax, the condo wellness center has two outdoor hot tubs and a beautiful pool. When it’s family time, you can fire up the BBQ and head to the entertainment area.

If you’re planning to visit La Paz include Balandra beach in your tour itinerary then make sure you check out these amazing all-inclusive hotels in La Paz .

Where To Eat In Balandra Beach?

Despite its beautiful scenery and calm atmosphere, Balandra Beach has no restaurants. So bring your snacks and food to make the most of your vacation.

But if you’d instead explore other areas around the beach, there are nearby places to eat.

The Essential Tips For Visiting Balandra Beach In Mexico

If you were born at the beach, you would probably want to spend most of your vacation at Balandra Beach. So, with that in mind, here are the most essential tips for visiting Balandra Beach in Mexico:

• Be aware of the tides
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Consider a guided tour
• Go during the week
• Be respectful of the environment

1. Be aware of the tides

Knowing whether the tide is coming in or going out is critical if you want to enter the water as it will help you stay safe and have an enjoyable swimming experience.

The best way to know if the tide is coming in or going out is to look at a tide table. It will tell you when high and low tides are and everything else. But if you can’t get a tide table, you can use visual clues like how the water flows or whether the beach is wet or dry.

To learn more about this, read how to tell if a tide is coming in or out .

2. Wear comfortable shoes

For many reasons, the beach can be hazardous. In addition to getting sunburned, did you know that your feet could be at risk too?

Wearing shoes can help you avoid injury in more than one way. When looking for shoes to wear to Balandra Beach, get a pair that is comfortable, supportive, and made of waterproof materials that dry quickly and are easy to clean. The shoe should also be durable and have enough grip to stabilize you on slippery rocks, sharp shells, and wet sand.

3. Consider a guided tour

Tour guides have a unique way of making trips even better. These people try to make sure you have fun and have the trip of a lifetime by giving you daily briefings, funny stories at dinner, and pep talks when things get tough.

So, a tour guide can be beneficial if you’re new to Mexico, don’t speak the language, or want to know more about Balandra Beach.

4. Go during the week

It’s not a secret that most people like to travel on the weekends. But, during the week, many beaches and hotels lower their prices to get more people to book on days with more rooms available.

Because fewer people travel during the week, fewer people will be at the beach, and you can enjoy peace, quiet, and space and also take advantage of special deals.

5. Be respectful of the environment

When planning a trip to Balandra Beach, please consider how your actions might impact the environment. As a traveler, it is essential to remind you of your responsibility to preserve the beach’s natural beauty.

To keep the beach clean and healthy, it is essential to throw away your trash in the right way. Leaving trash on the beach is not only a bad thing to look at but can also hurt wildlife and marine ecosystems.

The Bottom Line

In short, you might have already been to beaches in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and the Pacific. But, you’ll be surprised how lovely and unique Balandra Beach is.

Balandra Beach is one of the best beaches in La Paz and the place to go for a picnic. It’s a place where the beauty of nature meets your vacation dreams, the water holds the secrets to peace, and that strange rock is more than happy to join your vacation photo album.

Practical Guide to Visiting Beautiful Playa Blanca from Cartagena

Playa blanca, south of cartagena on the island of barú, is one of the most beautiful beaches in colombia.  a gorgeous, white sand beach with crystal clear water, it is well worth a visit from cartagena although it can get croweded.  read on for a complete guide to visiting playa blanca in cartagena, colombia, including how to get there, where to stay and some practical travel tips on avoiding the crowds..

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I am a member of Amazon Associates, LLC and other affiliate programs and earn from qualifying purchases made after clicking those links. There is never any additional cost to you. To learn more please consult our Disclosure Policy.

Practical Guide to Playa Blanca, Cartagena – Contents

Is playa blanca worth visiting.

• What to See and Do at Playa Blanca
• Playa Blanca Tours vs Going On Your Own

How to Get to Playa Blanca from Cartagena

• Day Trips to Playa Blanca vs Spending the Night?
• Places to Stay on Playa Blanca, Barú

Packing List for Playa Blanca

• Practical Tips (including avoiding crowds and dealing with vendors)

Too long; Can’t Read it All Quick Overview

Playa Blanca is gorgeous and worth a visit, but it can get crowded. Walking down the beach a bit can escape many of the crowds. It can be easily visited on all inclusive tours , tours that include the nearby islands , or on your own. Spending the night is possible but expect fairly basic accommodations and limited facilities in cabins like this . For more comfortable accommodations with private beaches away from the crowds, consider the all inclusive Decameron at the end of the beach or Las Islas or Isla del Encanto (also good for day passes ) farther south on the island. Practice your best no gracias for the vendors.

Want to save time planning your trip? Let the experts at our partner BnB Colombia Tours help you! Fill out this form and they will get back to you with a free, personalized itinerary based on your interests, no strings attached.

-> Click here to get a free planning checklist for your trip to Cartagena! <-

My answer to if it’s worth it to visit Playa Blanca from Cartagena is it depends . It’s a gorgeous beach, arguably Caribbean Colombia’s finest, however it can get very crowded, infrastructure is limited, and there are nicer options if you’re able and willing to spend a bit more to visit the nearby Rosario Islands .

However, if you are on a tighter budget and want to see some crystal clear water and white sand, or you have the time to do the islands and Playa Blanca while avoiding the weekend and holidays, I think it is still absolutely worth visiting. I will say, it is important to know what to expect when visiting.

That’s where I come in. Playa Blanca will always have a special place in my heart as it is just about 15 minutes from the town of Santa Ana where I spent my first year as a volunteer teacher in Colombia in 2011. I spent lots of time there that first year and frequently visited the next few years.

*Before planning your trip to Cartagena, be sure to revise the current Cartagena curfew . Recent times have also shown how important it is to have travel health insurance . World Nomads is a leader in traveler’s health insurance. Get a quote here . Mask mandates also remain in effect on airplanes and most public places in Colombia. Pick up some medical grade masks or some KN95s for extra protection.

This was back when there was no bridge to the island, the road was unpaved, and getting to the beach was quite the adventure. You would have to take a little ferry if you came via car or bus or you could cross in little canoes and take motorcycle taxis to the beach. Tour boats did bring people for day trips as well but they concentrated around the main entrance.

There was little development down the beach, only a handful of restaurants around the main area and some cabins and little hostels down the beach. It was an idyllic place to enjoy a largely unspoiled and undeveloped beach, and spending a night was an all but obligatory stop for backpackers trekking Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

The road I believe was paved in 2012 and 2013, and the bridge opened in 2014. Of course the road has led to a lot more development and larger crowds.  That has led some to conclude it’s not worth visiting anymore.  The reality is, Playa Blanca will never be the lighter traveled paradise it once was, but it is still worth a visit.

The water remains crystal clear and beautiful , and it is still a place to get away from it all, especially if you spend a night (more on that below).

However, I would avoid going to Playa Blanca on weekends, especially Sundays or Monday holidays, as well as during peak tourist seasons like Christmas, New Years, and Easter week. Besides being popular tourist seasons for Cartagena generally, it’s common to see people bus in from Barranquilla and Santa Marta as well.

If those times are the only ones you have, honestly, I’d just skip Playa Blanca entirely. The crowds are just too much, and the truth is the lack of proper infrastructure and the crowds are a hazard to the ecosystem, not to mention unpleasant. You’re better off enjoying another of the beaches of Cartagena .

What to Do at Playa Blanca

Well, you are on a gorgeous Caribbean beach. Relax, hang out, do some swimming, and. work on your tan!

Ok, I have a feeling you already thought of those things. In addition to normal beaching it, there are a few other things to do near Playa Blanca.

Down past the end of the beach, there is some good snorkeling. There is a small reef and you can see a good amount of fish. Some tours to the beach include snorkeling, and you can also find boats that take people out to snorkel from the beachfront as well.

See the Bioluminescent Plankton

You’ll have to spend the night or book a tour that includes this, but the bioluminescent plankton off the coast of Playa Blanca is pretty neat. Susana and I have actually never done this at Playa Blanca but we did in the San Bernardo Islands and thought it was really interesting to see.

Visit the Nearby Aviary

The Colombian National Aviary is located very close to Playa Blanca. It is excellently done. Some tours include it and the beach, or you can stop here on your way to the beach. Read more about the aviary here .

Rent a Jetski or Ride the Banana

You’ll see guys going by on jetskis offering to rent them from anywhere to 15 min to an hour. You’ll also see boats go pulling banana floats and inner tubes, which you can pay to ride. A note of caution, these are very informal arrangements and you should use them at your own risk. There have been some accidents, and I would discourage doing either on busy days at the beach.

Tour the Mangroves

This is a little less common, but past the end of the beach, there is also a mangrove swamp that you can usually find some boats selling little tours to go and see.

Enjoy a Nice Fish Lunch and Cold Beer

Yea, this much obligatory. Anywhere on the beach should offer the traditional fried fish plate, which goes perfectly with an ice cold beer and the pretty beach!

Do a Playa Blanca Tour or Go on Your Own?

If you’ve decided you can avoid the crowds on peak days and want to see beautiful Playa Blanca, you might ask yourself if it’s worth booking a tour to Playa Blanca or going on your own. As someone who generally does not do organized tours and a few years ago would have advised against it, with the larger crowds and so much development on the beach, I actually don’t think it’s a horrible idea anymore.

Below, I’ll discuss the advantages of taking a tour from Cartagena to Playa Blanca and the advantages of going on your own.

Reasons to Take a Tour to Playa Blanca

First, nearly all tours include lunch in addition to transportation, and they are generally reasonably priced. They also include a chairs and shade at a designated place on the beach. This means you won’t need to spend time walking down the beach looking, haggling or comparing prices for sitting areas and lunch prices.

It may mean you pay a little more, but it is convenient. Look especially for tours that go to beach clubs or to the area known as Playa Tranquila (this is down the beach where are fewer crowds). If you are not very confident with your Spanish, a tour to Playa Blanca from Cartagena is also a good option.

This tour is a great option. It includes everything you need and is reasonably priced for being able to book online, and the comments make clear it does go to the less crowded area of the beach. This tour also includes snorkeling and a boat ride through the mangroves.

Another potential advantage of doing a tour is some include a visit to the aviary. It is just a short distance from the beach and tours there often include a visit to the beach for lunch and a couple hours hanging out. It is possible to do the Aviary and then go to the beach on your own, but it can be somewhat difficult to find transportation besides flagging down mototaxis on the main road. This smal group tour includes the aviary as well as afternoon on the beach.

Finally, the last potential advantage of doing a tour is you can do one that includes the islands as well, seeing them and Playa Blanca in one day. Of course, if you have a group, you can rent a private boat , see the islands, visit party spot Cholón , and finish the day at Playa Blanca. If you don’t have a large enough group to make that cost effective, a tour like this one that includes the islands and Playa Blanca is another good option.

Going to Playa Blanca on Your Own

If you’d prefer to go to Playa Blanca without a tour, it is absolutely doable. I’ll speak below about how to get to Playa Blanca from Cartagena, but first the advantages of going to Playa Blanca on your own.

The first is the reason why I generally don’t do organized tours, freedom. You can choose where you want to hang out on the beach, going down farther from the crowds if you want. You can likely negotiate a better price for chairs and lunch, as well. So, depending on what form of transportation to Playa Blanca you choose below, you can definitely save some pesos by going on your own.

Finally, if you plan to spend the night, you are likely better going on your own. Wherever you spend the night should let you use their chairs and shade areas as a courtesy, and many will negotiate a good rate that includes food. Plus, while you may be able to negotiate a tour to pick you up a different day, not getting the return transportation means you’d be paying for something you’re not using.

You can get to Playa Blanca from Cartagena via tour boat, by taxi or private car, by tour bus, by motorcycle taxi direct from Cartagena, or by a combination of bus and then collective taxis or motorcycle taxis from the town called Pasacaballos.

Back in 2011, during my year as a volunteer teacher, it was a real adventure to get to Playa Blanca from Cartagena.  You had to take a bus or taxi to the town of Pasacaballos, then get a canoe or ferry across the canal, then get a motorcycle taxi to the beach along an unpaved road that was either dry and dusty or wet and muddy. Or you could go via tour bus or private car and often have to wait ages to get the ferry across.

Now it’s much easier to get from Cartagena to Playa Blanca . Obviously, if you’ve chosen to go with a tour to Playa Blanca, your transportation will be included and you can just skip this part. However, if you’ve chosen to go on your own, you do have a few options.

Getting to Playa Blanca from Cartagena via Taxi or Private Transportation

The easiest, but priciest, is to go via taxi or private transportation. The taxi price to go to Playa Blanca from the Centro of Cartagena is $85,300 COP according to the official prices. That is however, a one way fare, and if you are planning to go via taxi, you’re better off negotiating a rate that includes the taxi waiting for you and bringing you back so you don’t get stuck not getting one back.

We did that in early 2021, and paid $180,000 pesos. It may be possible to negotiate that down a bit, but I would expect to pay in the neighborhood of $160-200,000 COP. If you’re looking for a more comfortable ride and top notch service, consider booking a private SUV with BnB Colombia (use the discount code ExploreColombia10 to get 10% off).

Especially if you do want to include the aviary, getting private transportation for the day is an effective way to do it (that’s actually what we did when we hired the taxi for he day). If you have a group of 3 or 4, you actually won’t end up paying much more than going to Playa Blanca on public transportation below.

Going to Playa Blanca in a cary should take about 45 minutes, but can take longer due to traffic during peak seasons.

Getting to Playa Blanca via Public Transportation

Taking public transportation to Playa Blanca from Cartagena actually isn’t all that much different than back in 2011 today. To take the bus to Playa Blanca, you have to take a bus from Cartagena to Pasacaballos, a small town outside the industrial area of the city and just across the canal from the island of Barú.

I am going to be honest though, I have not done this since 2019, and am unsure of current prices, especially post pandemic. There have also been some cases of robberies on the road, so this is best not done alone.

You can get the bus to Pasacaballos across from the wall near the India Catalina stature (look for buses parked on the curve), along the Avenida Santander in Cabrero, or from the crossroads known as Ceballos (you can also get collective taxis to Pasacaballos from here). From Centro, it should take approximately an hour to get to Pasacaballos and the 2021 price of the bus is $2,700 pesos

Once in Pasacaballos (it’s the small town after you go past the refinery and port), you will need to take a collective taxi (usually private cars or 4x4s) or a mototaxi to the beach. Don’t be afraid to ask on the bus for them to tell you where to get off. The last time we did this, the cost of the collectivo was $8,000 pesos a person and a moto $10,000 pesos, but those may be slightly higher now.

To be honest, I’d probably advise against going this route now. Maybe that’s just because I’m nearing my mid-30s, but the safety concerns, the time it takes, and the inconvenience outweigh the savings to me. For the price of a few cocktails at most places in town, you can just do one of the tours or day passes mentioned above, and if you are in a group, hire a taxi. Still, if you’re on a tight budget, you should be able to get to the beach ok this way.

I’ve also heard you can take a mototaxi from Cartagena directly to the beach for approximately $40,000 pesos and get boats from the market to Playa Blanca but I would discourage doing either.

What about the Playa Blanca shuttle bus?

So, there used to be a great Playa Blanca shuttle from Hostel Mamallena. It was only $50,000 pesos round trip and had multiple departure and return times as well as letting you come back a different day.

Unfortunately, it sounds like they are focusing more now on day passes to their partner restaurant/beach bar Ocean Blue, which is probably better business for them. Honestly, just doing the day pass and asking if you could come back another day if you want to spend the night might still be a good way to go. They are in the process of getting back up and running, so I will try to update this in 2022 with more details on that as an option. (In the meantime, you can read a bit about Ocean Blue in this post ).

Getting Back to Cartagena from Playa Blanca

You can return to Cartagena from Playa Blanca by taking a moto back to Pasacaballos then hopping the bus or a taxi back into the town. Until about 4 pm, it should be pretty easy to find motos outside the main entrance to the beach. If you plan to leave after that, you should arrange it before hand.

It’s also common that tour boats will take people back. This can be a quicker way to get back to town. You will likely see guys walking up and down the beach in the early afternoon advertising they have spots. It’s been a while since I’ve done this so I’m not sure what current prices are, but I would think they would be in the $20-40,000 COP range.

Is spending the night on Playa Blanca worth it?

There are some big advantages of spending the night on Playa Blanca, mostly being able to enjoy a gorgeous sunset and a less crowded beach. However, with limited infrastructure, accommodations are basic and will be uncomfortable for some.

Do not expect running water, although many places do now have toilets that flush down a hole in the ground, and may have showers that use salt water or stored water. There is no electricity on the beach either, although most places will have a generator that they run for at least part of the night. Very few have air conditioning, although most will have fans to use on the generator.

If that all sounds totally unacceptable, consider staying at one of the best beach hotels in Cartagena and just doing a day trip to Playa Blanca. You could also look into the all-inclusive Decameron Resort located on a private beach at the end of Playa Blanca, although that will of course be much more pricey. Isla del Encanto (read about our experience there here ) and Las Islas a bit further south are also two of the very finest resorts in Cartagena. Finally, if you want a nice beach stay that has a good balance between cost and value, and can live without it being on Playa Blanca, I recommend Islabela in the islands (read bout our experience there here ).

I’ve had plenty of fun nights on Playa Blanca. I remember my first night staying there in a hammock strung up in a little shelter without a roof. Since all the day trips leave around 3:30, 4:00, you can usually enjoy the late afternoon with much fewer people on the beach. The sun sets directly over the Caribbean in front of the beach as well, and is very pretty.

So, as long as you’re aware you won’t have a nice shower and A/C (trust me, hangovers can be unpleasant), spending the night can be fun.

Where to Stay at Playa Blanca

For where to stay on Playa Blanca, you’ll find lots of cabin, hostel style accommodations up and down the beach. The places towards the end of the beach tend to be the newest. If you are planning to spend the night at Playa Blanca, I recommend asking around and comparing prices.

Ask to see the rooms, ask if the electricity stays on all night or not, and see if you can work out a deal that includes at least your lunches. Also, consider the beachfront area as well as you should get access to chairs and whatever shade areas or umbrellas they have too. Finally, you may want to consider if they have a little bar and/or what they charge for drinks when deciding where to stay.

Do I need to reserve a place to stay at Playa Blanca ahead of time?

Generally, you do not need to reserve ahead for places to stay at Playa Blanca. In fact, due to the lack of electricity and spotty internet (not to mention destruction of electronics), not many places even have a way to reserve ahead of time. Therefore, I would say you’re best off just going and asking around and comparing once there.

There are a handful of places, which tend to be nicer and on the higher end price wise, that do take reservations online if you’d like to have the peace of mind of reserving before hand. Here are a few places you can book online ahead of time via Booking.com:

• El Paraíso de Mama Ruth – Pretty row of multicolored cabins you have almost certainly seen on Instagram.
• La Cabaña Glamping Geronimo – Nicer place with glamping domes and a great beachfront area
• The Wizard – Colorful and party vibe hostel
• Nuestra Cabañita – Cabins near the end of the beach where it’s the quietest

All of those places have hundreds of mostly good reviews up on Booking.com as well, so you should feel pretty good about reserving there and know they will be nice.

• You’ll want to pack your favorite bathing suit.  For the girls,  this leaf print bikini  is cute and Caribbean themed.
• So is  this sarong .
• For the guys,  these palm tree print trunks  would be perfect.
• And don’t forget your towel.   These retro microfiber towels  from Dock and Bay are cool and quick drying.  For something less flashy, the  Rainleaf microfibers  are some of the best travel towels around.
• A  good snorkel set  is also nice to have given the clear blue waters at Playa Blanca Cartagena.

Accessories

• I love my  RawWood bamboo shades  (see my review  here ).  Besides the fact that they float, the green lenses also make them perfect for the Caribbean!
• This Panama hat  is packable, meaning it won’t lose its shape when rolled, folded, or mashed up in a bag.
• The facilities are a bit crude, so having  some camping toilet paper  is a good idea.  Not only will you be glad you did if you need it, but because it’s biodegradable, it’s better for the crude sewage systems on the beach.
• Good tunes are always a plus on the beach.  The  JBL Clip  is a great little compact bluetooth speaker for travel.
• I love my  Roam backpack  (see my review  here ).  It is easy to pack in a larger bag or carry for a short trip if you can manage to leave your larger luggage somewhere in town.

If You Stay the Night

• Definitely take bug spray if you spend the night.   If there’s not a strong breeze the mosquitos will eat you alive once the sun goes down .  I like  OFF! Deep Woods  which you can also get in  towelette form .
• This  palm sized first aid kit  is also a handy thing to have if you suffer any cuts or scrapes.
• If you do like to have your tunes and/or your phone on the beach,  this Ankor backup battery and charger  may prove handy.
• A Pacsafe  is great for traveling and protecting your valuables.  You could also try this smaller  AquaVault Flexsafe  that has a handy clip for beach chairs.
• Finally, even if places have gotten better about having bathrooms, you don’t want to be stuck with a bad stomach on Playa Blanca. Take along some Pepto Bismol just in case.

Practical Tips to Enjoy a Visit to Playa Blanca, Colombia

How to avoid the crowds at playa blanca.

Head down the beach to the right away from the main entrances by land near the parking lots.

Playa Blanca gets way too crowded around the main entrances.  In addition to those coming on cars and tour buses, many tour boats also pull up to the left of the entrance.

So, if you want to find fewer people, head to the right from the main entrance. Generally, the farther you go, the thinner the crowd will be, although there are boats that pull up as well. Still, especially if you had to come on a weekend or during high season, the long walk is well worth it to avoid the crowds.

Once the crowds start to thin out, start looking for where you want to spend the day. When deciding where to settle on the beach, do keep in mind the following:

• If you’re planning to have lunch or spend the night, you should be able to get chairs and shade included as a courtesy.  Therefore, ask about those things from the start.  There’s no point in paying for chairs to then go and have lunch or stay somewhere else.
• Look for a place that has some beach in front of it where you’ll be comfortable.

Come Prepared for the Vendors

I’ve never found Playa Blanca to be nearly as bad as the beaches in Bocagrande, but there are vendors, and some can be a bit pushy. It’s frustrating, and the massage ladies. can be especially aggressive.

Again, I spent a year in the nearby town, and there aren’t many other opportunities for people besides moving to the city or working at the beach .  While, yes pushy vendors can be frustrating, it is worth keeping in mind the context and that there are much worse ways for people to earn a living.

With that in mind, I’d also encourage you to patronize businesses owned or at least operated by locals.  By that I mean people born and raised on the beach or in one of the nearby towns.  And do consider getting a mango, fruit salad, cocada, piña colada, coco loco, massage, oysters, or bracelet from one of the vendors if you want one.

Negotiate and Agree to Prices

With the aforementioned in mind, always negotiate prices, and probably more importantly,  always make sure you agree on prices for anything before hand.

Unfortunately, here, as anywhere, there are people that look to take advantage of others.  The best advice I can give is to try not to let yourself be taken advantage of.  The best way to do that is to make sure you know the prices before you buy or agree to buy anything. Make sure it’s clear if chairs are a courtesy or you will be charged for them.  Also, keep a mental tab of what you’ve consumed so you’ll know if your final tab is correct.

Estimated Prices

Keep in mind these are just ideas, and we have note been out to Playa Blanca in a while, so if you’re finding most places are charging differently after comparing, these prices may just be out of date.

• A standard fish lunch should run you from 25-50,000 pesos depending on type and size of fish.  If you’re in a group, you can likely negotiate a discount.  Some places will have menus with set prices, some won’t.
• Beers should be 5-12,000 pesos, cocktails 15-30,000 pesos, and water and soda 3-5,000 pesos.  Keep in mind, these have to be brought to the beach and kept cold, so expect higher prices than what you’ll find in a tienda in Cartagena.
• There are no such things as free samples , no matter how much the massage lady or oyster monger insists.  Particularly with the massage ladies, occasionally you have to be insistent to the point of being rude that you’re not interested.
• If you feel like the prices you’re being told are unfair, head farther down the beach and ask.  There shouldn’t be much difference.  At the end of the day, it’s all fried fish, beers, and beach chairs.
• Know how to say “No, gracias” (no, thank you) with a finger wag.  Also, “Ya tenemos lugar” (we already have a place), and “De pronto más tarde” (maybe later) are useful.

Now that you know how to avoid the crowds, and what to expect price wise, you’re ready to plan your trip to Playa Blanca from Cartagena.

A Few Final Tips for Playa Blanca

• Take cash.  There are no nearby ATMs and few if any of the businesses take cards.
• Taking a bottle of rum and buying cokes as you go is a good way to save some pesos, as is taking a big bottle or jug of water and some snacks.
• I’d suggest leaving any big bags in Cartagena if you can.  Most hotels and hostels would likely hold them for you if you ask.
• If you’re leaving the beach, be sure you do so by 5 pm, unless you have arranged transportation later than that before hand .  It gets tough to find anything after that.
• The crowds are stressing the ecosystem in Playa Blanca.   Don’t litter , and it’s not a horrible idea to take out what trash you can as there just isn’t proper waste disposal on the beach.

Practical Guide to Playa Blanca – Conclusion

There you have it.  A complete guide to visiting Playa Blanca, Barú from Cartagena!  It’s a gorgeous each, and if you go ready to avoid the crowds and equipped to deal with the vendors, you’ll surely have an excellent time in the crystal clear waters and white sands.

I hope it helped you plan your trip and that you have a terrific time at this beautiful beach! If you do go to Playa Blanca, I’d love for you to let us know what you thought as well as give any additional tips you have for other travelers in the comments below.

Cheers and Happy Exploring!

Did you like this post?

You may also be interested in the following posts: Top 10 Places to Get Sunset Drinks in Cartagena, Colombia Travel Guide to Palomino, Colombia’s Hippest Beach Town Travel Guide to Tayrona National Park Travel Guide to Rincón del Mar Best Hostels in Cartagena

Planning your trip to explore Cartagena?

Check out the following posts to help plan: Insider’s Guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Cartagena Complete Packing List for Cartagena Top Things to Do in Cartagena

4 thoughts on “Practical Guide to Visiting Beautiful Playa Blanca from Cartagena”

Thanks for providing so many updates related to the pandemic! I’m going to be in Cartagena the first week of May 2021 and am trying to decide on where to go as a solo traveler given the current restrictions (looking at Barranquilla and Isla Baru). Any idea whether I can stay overnight anywhere on the Rosario Islands?

Hi Heidi. Yes. Most of the hotels are open in the Rosario Islands. If you like check out my post on them, there are some links to hotels there. I recommedn trying to book asap since they tend to get booked up in advance. Best, Adam

Terrific info, very helpful for planning our day, thanks so much!

Glad it helped Rob. I hope you have a great beach day. Drink a ice cold aguila or a piña colada for me!

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3 Best Ways to get from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itzá, Mexico

This article may be sponsored or include a provided product or affiliate link. See the footer and  Affiliate Disclaimer  for full details.

You can get from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza by ADO bus, private transfer, or rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itzá is by ADO bus , which costs USD 33. The journey takes a bit over 3 hours.

The most popular option is the Guided Tour, which goes straight from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itzá and offers a day full of exploration along with providing transportation.

The fastest way to travel to Chichen Itzá from Playa del Carmen is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi .

Venturing through Mexico, from its energetic city centers to its peaceful countryside, has been a journey of a lifetime for me.

In this article, I’m eager to share the practicalities of getting around. Navigate with confidence, and let Mexico’s charm unfold before you!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza .

Table of Contents

Transportation Options from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza

The following table outlines all transportation options from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza :

How far is Chichen Itza from Playa Del Carmen?

The distance from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza is 113.3 miles or 182.2 kilometers. The traveling time is around 2-3 hours.

Getting to Chichen Itza from Playa Del Carmen

1. ado bus from playa del carmen to chichen itza.

Journey Duration: 3 hours 20 minutes

Bus travel is the first and cheapest option from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza . 

There is a direct coach bus operated by ADO, which offers a comfortable and convenient service!

However, there’s only one ADO bus from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza daily, which departs at 08:10 AM from the ADO station on 5th Avenue and arrives in Chichen Itza in a little over 3 hours. 

The bus tickets are affordable and cost USD 33 for a one-way trip!

Remember to save your seats on the ADO coach bus in advance to skip the lines and ensure your trip from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza!

Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza ADO Bus Schedule:

The table below displays the ADO bus timetable for trips from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

2. Transport + Tour from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza

Journey Duration: ~3 hours

Another way you can get to Chichen Itza from Playa Del Carmen is by booking a tour that includes your transport!

If you’re traveling solo or want to explore the nearby cenotes and highlights of the area beside the ruins, joining one of the Chichen Itza tours from Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya is a great idea!

Several companies offer Chichen Itza tours , including a ride there and a tour of the ruins with a certified guide who explains the history of what was the most famous city in the Yucatan Peninsula!

Some offer additional amenities, so it’s up to you to make a choice about which offers you’re going to take !

3. Private Transfer from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza

Journey Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes

Alternatively, you can book private transport from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza if you are not driving yourself but still want independence and the comfort of having your vehicle!

You can book this service through several Mexican traveling agencies that provide private transfers for this route.

A personal driver will be assigned to pick you up at your preferred location and take you directly to the ruins! The drive takes a little over 2 hours.

This option costs more than public transport; therefore, it’s usually only recommended for groups or families.

4. Driving with a Rental Car from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza

And lastly, you can head on an adventure by renting a car from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza and explore on your own!

Travelers often rent a car and drive themselves to the various sightseeing destinations around Yucatan to customize their itinerary.

First, from Playa Del Carmen, you must take Highway 305, which connects to Highway 180. This one will take you directly to the ruins in about 2 hours! 

Because both roads are toll roads, the trip will cost USD 17 each way plus the rental car fee.

The drive to Chichen Itza is possible, but we strongly suggest renting a car online to avoid scams. To compare prices and to make your experience safer, we recommend using Rentalcars!

Rentalcars compares 900 companies at over 53,000 locations. Click here to guarantee you the best car rental price.

Best day tours in Chichen Itzá, Mexico

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the  best tours in Chichen Itzá, Mexico .

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the toll price on the road from playa del carmen to chichen itza.

If you’re traveling from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza on the toll road, expect to pay about USD 17 each way.

Can you go to Chichen Itza without a tour?

Yes, booking a private tour or guide to Chichen Itza is not required. In fact, many travelers choose to visit the site independently!

Is the drive to Chichen Itza safe?

To a great extent, traveling to Chichén Itzá by car is pretty safe. However, if you decide to drive to this isolated location, you should take extra precautions because some Mexican roads can be dangerous and unpredictable.

How much does it cost to see Chichen Itza?

The Chichén Itzá entrance fee is about USD 13.

Does the ADO bus go to Chichen Itza?

The ADO bus company offers service from the ADO station in Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza . The bus leaves once daily at 08:10 AM.

What is the cheapest way to get from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza?

The cheapest way to get from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza is by bus , which costs USD 33.

What is the fastest way to get from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza?

The fastest way to get from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza is to travel by car, which takes 2 hours and 15 minutes.

More Routes from Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen to Cozumel

Playa del Carmen to Holbox

Playa del Carmen to Chiquila

Playa del Carmen to Tulum

Playa del Carmen to Cancun Airport

Playa del Carmen to Cancun

Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itzá

• About the Author

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Mexico Tours & Trips

Peel back the lucha libre mask and you’ll find a patchwork of cultures and customs mixed into one flavor-filled country.

The gregarious locals are just as likely to pull you up for a dance at one of Mexico City ’s hip-shaking salsa clubs as they are to show you the way to one of the country’s many ancient ruins , all with a casual ‘hola’ and an inviting smile. While our tours get you up close with locals, they also show you the best sights from on and off the gringo trail. You can party until dawn in Playa del Carmen , eat your way into a food coma in colorful Oaxaca , or, best of all, kick back with a horchata in the lazy seaside port of Merida .

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Mexico at a glance

Capital city.

Mexico City (population 8.7 million)

129.9 million

(GMT-06:00) Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey - New

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Mexico

Best time to visit mexico.

Mexico is generally most pleasant between September and June in the cool, dry season. July and August can be very hot and humid, but perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and lazing on the beach. These are, however, the busiest months for travel as this is the time of the North American school holidays. Highland areas such as Chiapas and Oaxaca tend to be cooler year-round, with cold nights.

Read more about the best time to visit Mexico

Culture and customs

Mexico lays claim to one of the richest and most historic cultures in the world. Characterized by strong regional identity, locals are affiliated directly to the region they hail from with each region having its own unique customs, cuisine and even language dialect. Despite this, national identity is still strong with all Mexicans sharing common bonds over their love of sport, dance, food and religion. With most of the country belonging to the Roman Catholic religion, religious festivals and celebrations are plentiful in Mexico. Parades, street fairs and parties held in honor of local saints are commonplace, and offer travelers the chance to witness the customs and rituals of this vibrant culture.

Eating and drinking

One of Mexico's biggest draws is its food and drink. From Oaxaca's indigenous staples to the sizzling street food of Mexico City, there's almost too much choice for the hungry traveler. By the end of your Mexico tour, you'll know your tacos from your tamales, your enchiladas from your elote and your tequila from your mezcal.

Eat your way through this vibrant country on our  9 day Mexico Real Food Adventure.

Read what to eat in Mexico

Read what to drink in Mexico

Geography and environment

Mexico shares land borders with the  United States ,  Belize  and  Guatemala , and has an extensive coastline that runs along the Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

Featuring a wide variety of natural environments, Mexico is home to tracts of tropical rainforests, vast areas of low-lying plains and deserts, volcanic mountains and temperate beaches and lagoons.

Mexico's capital and major cities are typically built up, busy and lively – with a vast network of public transport, highways and roads. Rural areas, on the other hand, are distinctly less developed, with small-scale housing, unsealed roads and rustic farms.

History and government

Early history.

People have been living in Mexico for more than 13,000 years. Mesoamericans occupied the area early on, with archaeological evidence pointing towards Mesoamericans leading a hunter-gatherer existence. Maize farming is thought to have become commonplace by 1500 BC, which led to the farming of other commodities as well. A variety of cultures contributed to the early history of Mexico, with the Olmec, Toltec, Maya, Teotihuacan and Aztecs all bringing unique cultural, religious and artistic styles to the region, with the Mayan and Aztec Empires having the greatest (and most enduring) impact on the region. 

Mayan society can be traced back to 300 BC, while the Aztecs enjoyed prosperity from 1325 to around 1521 AD. Many ancient ruins and constructions from these periods are still standing all throughout Mexico and can be visited and viewed today. By the 16th century, the Spanish had arrived in Mexico and what followed was a period of colonialism that lasted nearly 300 years. 

During this time, Mexico was seen as a part of ‘New Spain’ along with Cuba and Puerto Rico. This was not a particularly good time for Mexicans who (under colonial law) were generally not allowed to travel outside of Mexico and were denied access to education. Mexico achieved independence from the Spaniards after the War of Independence (1810-1821) but peace was short-lived as two decades later the Mexican-American War brought more confrontation and armed conflict to parts of Mexico.

Recent history

Mexico’s Revolution of 1910 - 1921 was a period of instability, marked by political turmoil and bloodshed. More recently, Mexico has enjoyed an economic resurgence after decades of economic hardship, which lasted from the 1970s to the mid-1990s. The earthquake of 1985 didn’t help matters, with wide-scale damage and loss of life compounding the economic problems and political uncertainty of Mexico. Currently, Mexico is benefiting from a period of improved economic conditions, although the gap between the wages earned by Mexicans and their northern neighbors continues to widen. Mexico is now operating in a free market economy and the growth of tourism, agriculture and industry has ensured an improved economy for the country, although financial inequality still exists within.

Memorable moments of Mexico

1. ramble among the ruins.

A visit to the famed ruins of Chichen Itza reveals history, ancient architecture, and wildlife in equal measure. Walk through the complex and hear jungle animal calls as colorful birds fly among the canopy. This is a stirring experience to treasure.

2. Bittersweet bites

The cult of chocolate is well and truly alive in Oaxaca! The flavors here are simply phenomenal and unlike mass-produced chocolate in the Western world. Spiced with chili, cinnamon and cloves, you won’t soon forget the taste of Oaxacan chocolate.

3. Sunshine and snorkeling

Mexico’s Caribbean coastline showcases expanses of clear blue water, white sand beaches, vibrant reefs and plenty of sunshine. Snorkeling over colorful fish and sun-lit coral is simply unforgettable.

4. Mountain majesty

The cooler climate and fresh mountain air of San Cristobal de las Casas provides some respite from the city heat. Chilling out in this relaxed and visually stunning area is a magical Mexican moment.

5. Bus buddies

Catching a local bus in Mexico is a never-ending source of amusement. Overcome the language barrier and make friends with local commuters to pass the time.

6. Tequila!

No visit to Mexico is complete without downing a little bit of the national drink. While you may not remember every detail the morning after, good times and memorable holiday snapshots are guaranteed when tequila is involved.

7. Volcanic splendor

Mexico’s volcanic landscapes are photo-worthy and awe-inspiring. Hiking past rocky escarpments and surreal scenery is a rewarding travel experience to remember.

8. Village people

Sharing smiles and laughs with locals while strolling through the rural villages of Mexico is a simple, yet memorable way to see the real heart of Mexico - its people.

9. Mariachi melodies

Sway to the unique sounds of Mexico’s mariachi music in the streets and cafes of Mexico. The rhythms and beats will live in your heart for years to come.

10. To market, to market

Witness Latin America’s time-honored commercial traditions unfold in Mexico’s well-patronized markets. Hear the banter of stallholders, smell the fragrant scent of sizzling meat and admire the colorful array of wares on offer.

Top places to visit in Mexico

This coastal town is well-known for its incredible cliff-top Mayan temple ruins with expansive ocean views. But outside of architectural wonders, Tulum also has quite a few natural wonders. Spend some time exploring Tulum's numerous cenotes and caves for unforgettable snorkeling and diving.

Explore Tulum on our 8 day Yucatan Peninsula Adventure or on our 8 day Premium Mexico Yucatan Highlights tour.

Numerous significant architectural sites, baroque churches and impressive cultural displays may have landed Oaxaca the badge of Unesco World Heritage Site, but in recent years, the city has gained notoriety as a culinary destination. Make sure to try regional specialties like tlayudas, mole and mezcal.

Get a taste of Oaxaca on our 9 day Mexico Real Food Adventure.

3. San Cristobal

Set in a valley surrounded by pine forests, San Cristóbal de las Casas has a bright yellow cathedral, pastel houses and buildings draped in deep pink bougainvillea, making it one of Mexico's most colorful cities. Stop by the local markets to browse locally-made handicrafts with colors that rival those of the city itself.

Explore this colorful city on our 15 day Best of Mexico tour.

Travelers will be delighted with the range of good quality shopping available in Mexico. As usual, the markets offer some of the most cost-effective and fun ways to shop, although Mexico’s cities also showcase some excellent boutiques and galleries for more costly purchases. 

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. The United States and Canada generally have strict customs laws.

Things to buy in Mexico

1. Tiles, ceramics and earthenware

Mexico has a longstanding tradition of creating good-quality pottery. Hit the artisan markets for colorful pots, vases and jugs. Don’t forget to pack carefully.

2. Bright textiles

Woven textiles can be found almost everywhere in Mexico. Hand-woven rugs, blankets, scarves, and ponchos are great reminders of your time in Mexico.

The silver in Mexico is among the world's best. Rings, necklaces and bracelets featuring bold Aztec designs are popular choices.

4. Lucha Libre masks

This Mexican wrestling phenomenon is growing in popularity worldwide, so grab a colorful wrestling mask - it’s a great souvenir for kids (and big kids) at home.

Festivals and events in Mexico

Mexico is the land of the fiesta and the locals will find any reason to party. Whether they're celebrating independence, the saints or the dead, you can expect vibrant colors, lively music and a whole lot of dancing. One to keep an eye out for is the Autumn Equinox, when crowds gather at Chichen Itza to witness the sunlight and shadows play tricks on this ancient relic. During the autumn (and spring) equinox, the sun moves across Chichen Itza, illuminating parts of the temple to reveal the moving body of a snake. Not seen on any other days, this natural spectacle draws thousands of pilgrims.

Read more about festivals in Mexico

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Constitution Day

Benito Juarez’s Birthday Memorial

Independence Day

Revolution Day Memorial

Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe

Please note dates of  Mexico's public holidays  may vary.

Further reading

Mexico travel faqs, when is the best time to visit mexico.

Mexico is a country of varied landscapes and altitudes and the best time to visit depends on a variety of factors, the first of which is where you actually want to go.

Is it safe to visit Mexico?

Mexico has long been a popular tourist destination and most travelers do not run into any trouble. There are, however, areas that experience high levels of violent crime as a result of lawlessness and drug trafficking. That said, you can rest assured that Intrepid would not take you anywhere unless we were convinced it was safe.

Do I need a visa to travel to Mexico?

All tourists traveling to Mexico need a tourist permit, but not all need a visa. Citizens of the US, EU, Canada, the UK, Australia and New Zealand are among those who do not need a visa and can obtain a tourist permit on arrival.

Is tipping customary in Mexico?

Tipping is expected in most parts of Mexico. The service workers typically earn a low wage and rely on tips to earn a decent living. We recommend leaving 10–15 percent at restaurants (if the service charge is not already included), 5–10 percent of your room cost for housekeepers, and a few dollars for porters, bartenders and guides.

What is the internet access like in Mexico?

Internet access is good in Mexico with wi-fi available in most accommodations, bigger restaurants, airports and in some public spaces. It’s also easy and affordable to buy a local SIM card for the duration of your Mexico tour.

Can I use my cell phone in Mexico?

If you wish to use your cell phone while in Mexico be sure to activate global roaming before leaving your home country. You should also check with your provider regarding any charges you may incur when overseas.

If you wish to purchase a local SIM card in Mexico, your phone must first be unlocked. For more information on local SIM cards, please read about   internet access in Mexico .

What are the toilets like in Mexico?

It's likely that you will encounter different types of toilets while traveling in Mexico. Western-style flushable toilets are commonly found in high-end resorts, hotels and restaurants, while squat toilets are common in rural areas and homes. Be prepared by carrying your own supply of toilet paper and soap, as these aren't always provided.

Can I drink the water in Mexico?

We do not recommend drinking the water in Mexico.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available, often boiled to use for tea or coffee.

It’s also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Mexico?

Credit cards are generally accepted in Mexico at large stores and most mid- high-range hotels. Some cafes, bars and restaurants may accept card too, but the places with real character – and the best local food – tend to be cash only.

What is ATM access like in Mexico?

ATMs are available across towns and cities in Mexico. Travelers should not encounter trouble finding an ATM but be wary of international transaction fees. For your own safety, try to use ATMs in daylight hours.

What is the weather like in Mexico?

Mexico is renowned for its sunshine and sandy beaches, but the weather can vary depending on the region you’re traveling to and the time of year.

Is Mexico safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Mexico is becoming increasingly more accepting of same-sex relationships and has laws in place to protect those that identify differently, but it remains a country of strong Catholicism that has historically been hostile towards the local LGBTQIA+ community.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Mexico accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Tourist destinations in Mexico including Mexico City and the resort areas on the Yucatan Peninsula are seeing an increasing number of hotels, restaurants and tourist sights fitted out to accommodate travelers with limitations. That said, it can still be difficult for those with mobility issues and visual and hearing issues, particularly on public transport. We recommend using taxis to move around locally and flying between cities if possible unless, of course, you are on an Intrepid Mexico tour.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What should I wear in Mexico?

What you pack for your Mexico tour will depend on where you are traveling to. Mexico City, for example, will be much cooler than the coastal areas of Playa del Carmen or Tulum, thanks to its high altitude. In the winter, it can drop down towards freezing at night while reaching 73°F during the day, so it’s important to be prepared for both ends of the spectrum.

What's the accommodation like in Mexico?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Mexico you may find yourself staying in a basic hotel.

Intrepid prefers smaller character-filled hotels and guesthouses than hotel chains. When on vacation in Mexico, enjoy staying in small hotels owned and run by friendly locals.

Does my trip to Mexico support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Mexico directly support our foundation partner, Gastromotiva Mexico.

Gastromotiva Mexico

Gastromotiva Mexico is tackling food scarcity and homelessness while promoting a sustainable food movement. Donations help them provide nutritious, balanced meals to community shelters for vulnerable people such as women affected by domestic violence and refugees.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Sightseeing Bus Tour Happiness Tours on the Yamaguchi-go B

Yamaguchi Prefecture’s natural wonders and historical sites come alive on the Yamaguchi-go B sightseeing bus tour . From the awe-inspiring Akiyoshido limestone cave to the serene Beppu Benten Pond , this immersive experience showcases the region’s diverse attractions. Travelers can savor local cuisine at Senza Kitchen and explore the well-preserved Hagi Castle Town, delving into the area’s rich cultural heritage. With flexible departure times and a hassle-free cancellation policy, this tour provides a convenient way to uncover the hidden gems of Yamaguchi. What secrets might this journey unveil?

• The Yamaguchi-go B sightseeing bus tour offered by Happiness Tours showcases the nature and history of Yamaguchi Prefecture, including Akiyoshido limestone cave, Beppu Benten Pond, and Hagi Castle Town.
• The tour includes a visit to Senza Kitchen, a roadside station offering locally sourced ingredients and hearty regional dishes.
• Participants can experience the serene atmosphere of Beppu Benten Pond, a mysterious blue-water pond with a Shinto shrine on an island.
• The tour provides an opportunity to explore the well-preserved historical structures and atmosphere of Hagi Castle Town, a prosperous castle town from centuries past.
• Akiyoshido, one of Japan’s largest limestone caves, is a highlight of the tour, offering insight into the geological history of Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Tour Overview

This "Yamaguchi, the Land of Oidemase Fuku" B trip to Yamaguchi is a 1-day tour that offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.

The tour showcases the nature and history of Yamaguchi Prefecture, including the Akiyoshido limestone cave . The itinerary covers Beppu Benten Pond, Senza Kitchen, Hagi Castle Town, and Akiyoshido.

Departure times are 8:30 from Yuda Onsen and 9:10 from Shin-Yamaguchi Station, with a return to those locations at 17:40 and 17:00, respectively. Pricing is $45.15 per adult and $32.50 per child, with the Akiyoshido entrance fee included.

The tour offers an opportunity for guests to experience the nature and history of Yamaguchi Prefecture . Highlights include the entrance fee to Akiyoshido , one of Japan’s largest limestone caves with a constant temperature of 17°C.

Guests can also visit Beppu Benten Pond , known for its mysterious blue water and the Beppu Itsukushima Shrine. The tour includes a stop at Senza Kitchen, a roadside station offering fresh seafood, vegetables, and the Nagato Toy Museum.

Beginning at 8:30 , the tour departs from Yuda Onsen, followed by a departure from Shin-Yamaguchi Station at 9:10.

The first stop is Beppu Benten Pond , where visitors can explore the mysterious blue water and visit the Beppu Itsukushima Shrine. Next, the tour heads to Senza Kitchen , a roadside station offering fresh seafood, vegetables, and access to the Nagato Toy Museum.

The group then ventures to Hagi Castle Town , immersing in the atmosphere of a prosperous castle town, historical sites, and the option to rent kimonos or join guided tours. The final destination is Akiyoshido , one of Japan’s largest limestone caves maintained at a constant temperature of 17°C.

• Explore the natural wonders and historical sites of Yamaguchi Prefecture
• Discover the region’s culinary delights at Senza Kitchen
• Immerse in the traditional atmosphere of Hagi Castle Town
• Marvel at the geological marvels of Akiyoshido
• Customize your experience with optional activities and guided tours

Beppu Benten Pond

Visitors to Beppu Benten Pond can marvel at its mysterious blue waters and explore the nearby Beppu Itsukushima Shrine . The pond’s striking color is due to the mineral-rich spring water that feeds it.

The shrine, situated on an island in the pond, dates back to the 8th century and is dedicated to the Shinto goddess Benzaiten . Tourists can cross a small bridge to reach the shrine, which features intricate architecture and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

The entire area offers a peaceful and serene escape from the bustle of everyday life, making it a highlight of the Yamaguchi-go B tour.

Senza Kitchen

A roadside station , Senza Kitchen offers travelers a chance to refuel with fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and other local delicacies. It’s the perfect pit stop to energize before exploring the nearby Nagato Toy Museum .

The menu features:

• Locally sourced ingredients showcasing the region’s culinary bounty
• Hearty dishes that satisfy the appetite
• Vegetarian options for those with dietary restrictions
• Efficient service to keep the tour on schedule
• A welcoming atmosphere to recharge and rejuvenate

With its convenient location and diverse offerings, Senza Kitchen is a highlight of the Yamaguchi-go B tour , providing a satisfying dining experience amidst the journey’s historic and natural wonders.

Hagi Castle Town

What awaits visitors in Hagi Castle Town is an atmosphere of a prosperous castle town from centuries past. Strolling through its historical sites , one can imagine the town’s vibrant past. Highlights include the imposing Hagi Castle ruins and the picturesque Kikuya-gumi merchant houses . Visitors can even rent traditional kimonos and explore the town guided by local experts.

The town’s well-preserved structures provide a glimpse into Japan’s feudal era, offering a unique cultural experience. With its tranquil streets and rich history, Hagi Castle Town enchants visitors seeking to enjoy the legacy of a bygone era.

One of Japan’s largest limestone caves , Akiyoshido captivates visitors with its extraordinary geological formations . The constant temperature of 17°C creates a serene, underground environment perfect for exploring. Visitors can marvel at the stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations that have been shaped over millions of years.

The cave offers a glimpse into the natural wonders of Yamaguchi Prefecture. Key features of Akiyoshido include:

• Vast underground chambers
• Striking rock formations
• Stable, comfortable temperature
• Insight into geological history
• Peaceful, natural atmosphere

Akiyoshido is a must-see destination for those seeking to enjoy Yamaguchi’s remarkable natural landscape .

The pricing for the Yamaguchi-go B sightseeing bus tour is straightforward . Adults pay $45.15 per person, while children (elementary school students over 3 years old) are $32.50 per person. The price includes the entrance fee to Akiyoshido, one of Japan’s largest limestone caves.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for participants. With a duration of 1 day , the Yamaguchi-go B tour provides an affordable and inclusive way for visitors to experience the natural and historical wonders of Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?

The tour allows you to bring your own food and drinks on the bus. However, a lunch stop at Senza Kitchen is included in the itinerary, where you can purchase your own meal.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?

The tour operator does not offer any discounted fares for senior citizens. The pricing for adults is $45.15 per person, and for children (elementary school students over 3 years old) it’s $32.50 per person.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Bus?

The tour does not mention the availability of Wi-Fi on the bus. Travelers should check with the tour operator to inquire about Wi-Fi connectivity during the tour if this is an important consideration.

Can I Leave the Group and Explore on My Own?

Passengers can explore on their own during scheduled free time, such as at Hagi Castle Town. However, they should return to the bus at the designated time to continue the tour itinerary.

Are There Any Rest Stops Along the Way?

There are rest stops along the way. The itinerary includes a 60-minute stop at Senza Kitchen, a roadside station with fresh seafood, vegetables, and the Nagato Toy Museum. Participants can explore and have lunch on their own during this stop.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Fuji Plan – Kimono Experience and City Walk
• Yamaguchi Ube Airport To/From Yamaguch City Private Transfer
• Ube Airport To/From Yamaguchi City Private Car

The Yamaguchi-go B sightseeing bus tour offers an immersive and convenient way to explore the natural wonders and historical sites of Yamaguchi Prefecture. With flexible scheduling, a generous cancellation policy, and a focus on local cuisine and culture , this tour provides travelers with a seamless and enriching experience. Whether seeking the grandeur of Akiyoshido or the charm of Hagi Castle Town, the Yamaguchi-go B tour is an excellent choice for discovering the best of this captivating region.

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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory august 22, 2023, mexico - see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.  

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to the following restricted areas. All areas within the boundaries, including highway and roads unless specifically exempted, are restricted.  

East-Northeast Boundary – The eastern boundary follows the Mexican-Guatemalan border from the southern point on the Pacific coast, along the border, to the northern end point east of Netzahualcóyotl.  

Northern Boundary - From Netzahualcóyotl in a straight line southwest towards the northern limit of Ocosingo.  

Western Boundary - From Ocosingo in a straight line south to El Ocote. From El Ocote in a straight line west to San Francisco Pujiltic. From San Franciso Pujiltic southwest to just north of Mapastepec.  

South-Southwest Boundary - Highway 200 from Mapastepec to Tapachula. All towns along this highway are not restricted. The area to the north of highway 200 defines the southern boundary of the restricted area. From Tapachula, the restricted area boundary is north and east of the city limits and then extends southeast to the Pacific coast at Tres Hermanos San Isidro.  

Tapachula – Travel to Tapachula and within the city limits is not restricted. Highway 225, from Port Chiapas to Tapachula, to include the Tapachula Airport, is not restricted.  

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

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How to get from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza Mayan ruins

Driving directions, bus, and tours to chichen itza from playa del carmen.

How to get from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza

For visitors to the area one of the first places people have on their agenda is a tour to Chichen Itza. So if you are staying in our area of the Riviera Maya, how do you best get from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza? There are three ways to get there. Each way has advantages and there are some cost you might not have expected. See what it is like in each of the three methods to get from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza.

How to drive from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza

For people that like a little adventure and time to explore on their own, this can be a great way to visit the ruins. It also can be a good way for a group or family to save money and still get to see one of the most visited sights in Mexico. However there are cost involved and drawbacks. What are some of these?

Be sure to read our guide about driving in Mexico and some things you should know about.

Cost of driving from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza

• The first thing you need is a rental car ( see our recommended local car rental in Playa Del Carmen article ). After insurance and taxes, for a basic car this will cost you about $40-50 USD.
• Toll road or slow route? There are two basic ways from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza. The fastest way is the new toll highway that leaves from Playa Del Carmen (305) and cuts directly across to the 180 Highway. The 305 is a toll road and so is the 180 Highway. The total cost from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza is currently about $47 USD round trip.  Taking the toll roads will take about 2 hour and 11 minutes and is 180 kilometers.  The non toll route will take you on the 307 to Tulum, then towards Coba and onward to Valladolid. From Valladolid you would take the old 180 highway to Chichen Itza. This way takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes and is 215 kilometers.
• Gas expenses. Based on the above distances of the routes from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza, the base price for gas will be about 205 pesos each way or a total of 410 pesos round trip on the toll route. The non toll road route will cost about 240-peso one way or 480 round trips in gas. Of course, you probably will do a little more driving while out on an adventure.
• Parking at Chichen Itza. Car parking cost 80 pesos.

So for a car rental, tolls, and gas the price will be about 1,800 pesos. Now if you drive there you have to figure in the admission since you will pay this if you are not on a tour that includes this. The price is 571 pesos per person.

Driving to Chichen Itza and finding a place to eat

You will also need to factor in eating lunch somewhere. We don’t recommend any of the restaurants at the archeological site of Chichen Itza . We recommend driving to the local 180 road and going toward the town of Piste or toward Valladolid. Along the road you will find some small and large restaurants that cater to tourist. The super big ones tend to get tourist busses and have buffets (usually with lower quality food). You should calculate about 150 pesos per person for a meal.

Our best tips video for visiting Chichen Itza ruins

If you drive here yourself or even take a tour, you can get some good tips from our video here. 

How to take the bus from Playa Del Caren to Chichen Itza

There is a daily ADO bus that leaves from the bus station in Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza at 8:00am. The bus takes 3 hours and 45 minutes to get there. This is a little bit of a slow way of getting there but it is easy. Returning from Chichen Itza to Playa Del Carmen there is one ADO bus a day at 4:30pm. It takes 3 hours and 24 minutes to make the trip. The cost of the bus to Chichen Itza ranges from about 150-250 pesos each way. This depends on if there is a sale or not. We do recommend buying the complete ticket the day before if you choose this option. Not only can you make sure what bus station it is leaving from, you can also make sure you secure a ticket both ways.

Alternative bus routes from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza ruins

Alternative routes would involve a bus to Valladolid Yucatan . This is a small city in the middle of the peninsula. Here you can spend the night and go the following day to Chichen Itza or just stop in Valladolid to and from the ruins. There are four buses a day from Valladolid to Chichen Itza and five buses a day from Chichen Itza to Valladolid. Since there are multiple schedules it is best to check the ADO bus website here for the complete list.

There is also another option from Valladolid to Chichen Itza. There are colectivo vans that run daily from Valladolid. These leave just a few doors east of the main bus station in Valladolid. These vans go when they fill up. The best time to go is in the morning when there are more people going and the colectivos fill up faster. The cost is about 20 pesos less and a little faster but is subject to waiting for riders.

Tours from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza

For most people on vacation, a tour from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza is the easiet way to see the ruins. This way you can leave the driving up to the tour and enjoy a planned day. The price of a tour is worth it to most people because a trip to Chichen Itza it is a “ must see ” when coming to this part of Mexico. You will see tours offered everywhere, but how do you know what is a good tour? What should you expect in a tour to Chichen Itza?

Most upper quality tours are priced between $100 and $160 USD for adults. You can see examples of these below.

Here are three categories of tours that you can take from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza

We will keep adding to this list when we go on a tour that we think you will enjoy.

Bus tours to Chichen Itza

• Xichen Clasico Tour . This bus tour by Xcaret picks you up from your hotel. The main part of this excursion is a guided tour of Chichen Itza and then a visit to Cenote Ik Kil . At Cenote Ik Kil you will eat at a buffer and have the chance to swim in the famous cenote. This is a more budget level tour from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza. See the link for our video and all the details of this tour.
• Xichen Deluxe Tour . This is another tour by Xcaret. It picks you up at your hotel and takes you Chichen Itza. A guide will take you around the ruins and then you will go to the colonial city of Valladolid. Here you will enjoy their special restaurant La Casona and have a great meal with a lot of variety. You will also have time to walk around the town square. Depending on the schedule, before or after lunch you will visit Cenote Zaci. This is a deep cenote in the city of Valladolid. See the link for a video and all the details of this tour.

Small tours to Chichen Itza

This small group tour will take you in a van to either stop at Cenote Maya first or Chichen Itza. A certified guide will take you around the ruins and you will have some time to self explore a little. The Cenote Maya part is fun because it is only available to visit with this tour and is the largest cenote in the Yucatan! At Cenote Maya you will enjoy a buffet of reginal cuisine. The tour of the cenote involves rappel. swimming, and zip lines all in the cenote.

This tour is special because the tour company operates Cenote Maya and it is only visited by their tours. They also focus on the Mayan heritage of the area and the tour feels a little less touristy.

Private tours to Chichen Itza

If you want something special or a private tour just for your family or group, this can be a nice option. Some places offer “ private tours ” but this is just code for a small group, and this does not give you ultimate freedom to choose details for your trip. We only recommend private tours with a company that makes a tour for you. Absolute Adventure Mexico is a local tour company that we have been on tour with. They plan and do a great job making your day special. If you want to visit Chichen Itza and want a private tour, we recommend you contact them in the link above.

Have you gone to visit these Mayan ruins? How did you get from Playa Del Carmen to Chichen Itza? We would love to hear your tips and suggestions in the comments below.

Once you get to Chichen Itza you will want to know what to see and some more details about visiting. Our guide here and video help you see how to best get around Chichen Itza . We also have an article and video about what the light show at night is like . 

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These were pretty easy to follow. I took my family to Chichen Itza for the day and we found it pretty easy. Parking was necessary because the “free” parking is far from the entrance.

Thanks for all the details. I hope once things open up again to go and the info will all be correct. I hope to take the bus and visit Valladolid also. Chichen Itza has been on my list of places to see for a long time.

We are going this weekend and will make a stopover in Valladolid. I hope things are open to see the town. Then we will use Valladolid for a base to visit Chichen Itza.

We just got back from Chichen Itza yesterday. We got to visit many of the suggestions here and really liked our day. Thanks for all your ideas.

Hi Mariane did you drive yourself if so was it safe on the toll roads? My boyfriend and I are planning to rent a car and drive from Playa Del Carmen next Tuesday morning to see Chichen Itza!

We will reply in case Mariane does not. There is a little construction on the highway for the new Maya Train so it causes a little delay. If you staywith the speed limit you are good to go. Sometimes police stop people for speeding.

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Day trip to Suzdal from Moscow: transport, sights, maps and tips

 DAY TRIP TO SUZDAL

  Suzdal is one of the most popular destinations on the Golden Ring and the whole city is often described as an open-air museum.  The city has no railway station and practically no heavy industry, meaning that is has preserved its provincial charm and a great deal of architectural monuments.

  From Moscow, Suzdal is not as easy to get to as Sergiev Posad (the closest Golden Ring city to the capital) but it is worth going the extra distance as Suzdal provides more of a contrast from Moscow.  If you make use of high-speed trains it is possible and not too demanding to visit for even just a day, but of course spending the night there is recommended to soak in the atmosphere or to combine it with a visit to neighbouring Vladimir.  As the city is a very popular tourist destination you will have no problem finding a cafe or guesthouse there.  There is practically no public transport in the city, but the city is small and most sights are located relatively close to each other.

Getting There and Back

Via Vladimir

Direct to Suzdal

  Buses directly to Suzdal leave from Moscow’s Schyolkovsky Bus Station.  There are about 9 buses a day and it takes around 4½ hours depending on traffic.  The buses stop at Vladimir too.  Using this option will mean a rather exhausting day trip.

Orientation and Main Sights

  Suzdal is a relatively small city and it is not difficult to walk around the city to see most of the sights.  

  The main road in the city is Ulitsa Lenina which runs north across the whole city.  

  The main sights of Suzdal are located either on or just off this road, including the two main sights: the Suzdal Kremlin in the south and the Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in the north.

  More information about Suzdal can be found on our Suzdal  pages.

  Suzdal is famous for its medovukha (mead) which is an alcoholic drink made out of honey.  It can be drunk either hot or cold, meaning it perfect in both summer and winter, and you will find it on practically every menu in the city.  There are various flavours of the drink available and even a non-alcoholic version.  In addition to medovukha, you can find all traditional Russian souvenirs in the city and there is a big souvenir market on Torgovaya Ploschad.

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